Sociology Theory of Symbolic Interactionism Essay

Sociology Theory of Symbolic Interactionism - Essay Example For one, symbolic interactionists highly consider the importance of subjective meaning within any kind of human interaction or intercommunication. Evidently, the principles marked in symbolic interactionism generate implications particularly to the study of sociology. This paper briefly traces the history of the concept of symbolic interactionism. Further, it discusses the definition of symbolic interactionism given by Herbert Blumer. And finally, the paper examines the impacts of symbolic interactionism to three prominent strands or levels, namely, intrapersonal state, interpersonal process, and social institution. Of history The emergence of the term â€Å"symbolic interactionism† basically originates from Herbert Blumer of the University of Chicago; it was in the 1930s when Blumer coined such term and, from there, established the key concepts or principles attributed to present-day symbolic interactionism (Appelrouth & Edles, 2008). It is strange, though, that Blumer (1968) describes his coinage as â€Å"somewhat barbaric neologism† (p. 1). Of course, every new word -- neologism is derived from the Greek language which means â€Å"new word† -- is strange or foreign especially to people who are not accustomed or familiar to it. Nevertheless, the barbaric description is far from being scholarly. Perhaps Blumer chooses the signifier â€Å"barbaric† in describing his new sociological theory for the reason that such theory or concept emphasizes the subjectivity of persons with regard to certain symbols or meanings. In the process, the â€Å"barbaric† aspect of symbolic interactionism is rightly construed by the fact that such theory critically opposes the dominant thoughts (i.e., objectivity) marked in the early 20th century. On the other hand of the scale, Blumer (1968) highly considers George Herbert Mead to be the central figure who â€Å"laid the foundations of the symbolic interactionist approach† (p. 1). Like Blumer , Mead is associated to the University of Chicago. Mead is famous for his idea of symbols or meanings as shared by many people or minds. Especially in the realm of language, he argues that symbols and their meanings are constructed and reconstructed -- in essence, shared -- by interacting persons. Similar to other symbolic interactionists, Mead views the individual human self as a social construction in which it is â€Å"crafted through the linguistic exchanges† (as cited in Harter, 1999, p. 677). However, Blumer (1968) still holds that he is the one who developed or expounded the full version of such sociological theory in spite of Mead’s being the â€Å"founder† of symbolic interactionism (p. 1). Generally speaking, symbolic interactionism is historically traceable to the â€Å"Chicago School† of sociology (Burnier, 2005). Of theory Blumer (1968) categorically defines the concept of symbolic interactionism as a â€Å"distinctive approach to the study o f human group life and human conduct† (p. 1). In order to fully appreciate this definition, there are five key elements that need to be emphasized and discussed: (1) approach, (2) human, (3) group, (4) life, and (5) conduct. First, Blumer views the theory of symbolic interactionism as an approach in studying a particular phenomenon salient in human society. As an approach, there are several premises, ideas, or frameworks that constitute such an approach or methodology; and these premises or frameworks are the fundamental principles that make-up

Freshwater & resource Essay Example for Free

Freshwater resource Essay Freshwater is a valuable natural resource, but freshwater is only 3% of the total volume of water in the world. Two-thirds of this is found in glaciers and polar ice caps; thus leaves only 1% which can be readily acquired. Humans and other living organism on Earth need water to be able to survive. Freshwater is important in the transportation of nutrients in soil and is necessary for the propagation of plantations that support life for other organisms. Freshwater is a scarce resource; however it is easily contaminated by human activities. Human activities such as mining can contaminate rivers with heavy metals. It can also disrupt the ecological balance that requires the use of freshwater. Farmers who use excessive pesticide can contaminate freshwater supplies. Pesticides sip into the soil and flows to rivers when it rains. This human activities causes health problems, not only to humans but to other organisms as well. In some regions of the world, freshwater is not used efficiently. Irrigations and artificial dams disturb the water ecosystem. Irrigations and artificial dams direct the flow of freshwater to other paths which can harm organism who highly require freshwater. The ecological balance is destroyed which can affect several organisms that is part of the ecosystem. Excessive irrigation also induces desertification. Desertification is the decline of biological and economic activity of the soil. Desertification has been seen places around the world, such as China wherein farmers used irrigation inefficiently. Freshwater is renewable but it should be used in way that nothing is wasted. More and more people over the world are experiencing the lack of freshwater. Creating an effective water management is the only solution for this problem. References Richter, B. (2003). Ecologically sustainable water management: managing river flows for ecological integrity. Ecological Applications , 13 (1), 206-224

The Impact Of Exercise On Happiness Essay

The Impact Of Exercise On Happiness Essay The impact of exercise on happiness has long been interest to researchers and many researches had identified that exercise as a cause of joy. Happiness is consisted of three components which are positive excitement, life satisfaction and the absence of negative state like depression and stress. Exercise refers to planned, structured, and repetitive movement to improve or maintain one or more components of physical fitness (Knà ¶chel et al., 2012). Other than physical benefits such as reduced risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, exercise has also psychological benefits which including greater levels of positive mood and happiness, lower levels of depression and anxiety (Reed Ones, 2006). People who exercise are happier and more sociable than people do not participate in exercise. Meta-analyses and comprehensive reviews have clearly showed that exercise minimize self-reported anxiety and depression. Reed and Ones (2006) meta-analytic review of 158 studies concluded that exercise can helps to increase positive mood. For instant, participants who took part in a ten weeks exercise program for mood-enhancing purpose, they experienced significantly increased self-esteem after complete the program. Moreover, experiments done on American and Italian teenagers showed that they are at the happiest state when they get involved in sports and games (Huang Humphreys, 2012). According to the findings, regular exercise results in life satisfaction, increases happiness and improves general health in students (Gatab Pirhayti, 2012). There are students who practice regular exercise such as jogging to maintain health. On the other hand, Forrest and McHale (2010) as cited in Huang Humphreys (2012) found that women who engaged in physical activity reported higher well-being than women with similar characteristics who did not engage in physical activity. Problem Statement and Significance of Study Many students claimed that they do not have time to exercise as homework and assignments have taken up all their time. They would rather spend their time surfing internet, playing online games or hanging out with friends when they are free. Some students who are obese do not practice regular exercise and they have lower level of happiness. Exercise and food choices are areas for improvement. Furthermore, group exercises will increase happiness in students (Gatab Pirhayti, 2012). For example, males are more likely to be involved in group exercise such as playing basketball, badminton and football. In sports and group activities, people will learn to help others, cooperation in teamwork and thus can build stronger friendship and self-confidence that lead to happiness. Planned Activity Procedure An exercise program was scheduled and planned for the participants (6 group members of the assignment: 2 males and 4 females) during the initial 2-4 weeks of the trimester at their university. All participants were aged 21-22. The instruction regarding the exercise and completion of Authentic Happiness Inventory Questionnaire was being posted in the Facebook group page prior to the starting of exercise program. Before and after the whole exercise program, participants are required to complete the Authentic Happiness Inventory Questionnaire to assess their pre- and post-activity level of happiness. Participants were being told to jog lightly for a period of 30 minutes at moderate pace and intensity. Jogging sessions took place in Westlake Garden which located near to participants house area while the questionnaire and self reflection were being done individually by participants seated at home or any indoor area. There were at least 3 jogging programs being conducted in group each week . All exercise program were took place in early evening (around 5.30 PM), with the condition when the weather was fine. Rationale for the Activity Chosen Part of the rationale that jogging or walking was chosen was because it is safe and effective in promoting health. At the same time, it was expected to be enjoyable or at least tolerable for everyone across a wide range of fitness level and body weights (LePage and Crowther, 2010). Walking was being emphasized as a significant example of appropriate lifestyle activity for it is readily accessible and easily regulated exercise. This rationale is supported by the assumption that lower intensity of activity tends to be adopted and maintained for longer period of time (Ekkekakis, Backhouse, Gray and Lind, 2008). In short, moderate intensity is more likely to be practice for long period than high-intensity activities. Theoretical Approaches There are many interesting theories which are related about happiness and also to explain how people can gain happiness and increase their happiness level. Theories related to happiness will be like flow, hedonic, eudaimonic and learned helplessness. Theories chosen to be discussed on how exercise related to happiness are theory of flow and hedonic theory of happiness. Theory of Flow We are interested in Csikszentmihalyis theory of flow because the experience of being in flow is fairly common for people, and they are also easy to be recognized this condition. According to Csikszentmihalyi (as cited in Compton, 2005), flow denotes the holistic sensation present when we act with total involvement. Human always gain happiness or enjoyment when they put attention towards the content of the activity. For instance, when a person who is exercise lover, they will always tend to enjoy and found happiness during their exercise moment, they may pay attention towards what they are doing, and do not conscious their surroundings. Therefore, flow theory can explain how the athletes increase their happiness during exercise. Flow is the experience that allows people to enjoy life, feel happier and function better. Firstly, the characteristic of action and awareness are merged is explaining on how people feel inside the activity (Compton, 2005). Next, flow is complete concentration on the task at hand, which complete concentration and centering of attention on the activity of the moment and the concentration appears effortless. Distractions are excluded from the consciousness, people will not focus on the distractions anymore but put attention at the task (McGuinness, 2006). Thirdly, when people is in flow, they will be lack of worry about losing control, which means they have a sense of control, they feels they are in complete control of their action. In additional, flow is a loss of self-consciousness, which ego part of human is quieted, and we do not have to think before we act, we are not trapped in an internal conflict between various options (Compton, 2005). Others than that, being in flow, time is no longer seems to pass in ordinary way, which means time seem to pass more quickly than usual. Next, flow is refer to the experience is done for its own sake rather than a means to another goal. Flow also accompanies a challenging activity that requires skill which personal challenge of an activity may pushes individuals skill level, and requisite concentrate is produced that can induce the flow experience (Compton, 2005). Hedonic Theory of Happiness The other theory which can explain well about happiness is hedonic. According to Norrish and Vella-brodrick (2008), this theory explains that in order to be happy, we must maximize our pleasure while on the same time minimize experience that is painful. Thus, happiness will only occur if pleasure experience and sensory gratification are more than the painful experience. If painful experience is more than pleasure experience, then happiness is unlikely to occur. Hedonism also call hedonic well-being includes the idea that pleasure is the basic motivating force behind most of the human behaviors but also recognize that certain pleasures require positive social interactions with other people (Compton, 2005). It comprises of an affective component such as high positive affection and low negative affection, and also the cognitive component which the satisfaction with life (Happiness and Positive Psychology, 2010). Rationale of Theories Chosen As compared to eudaimonic theory, hedonic theory is more suitable for us to access happiness in this assignment because it can be retrieve easily by asking person current emotional state and also it can be experience easily in different situation. In eudaimonic, people may do not experience fully and when they are not achieve certain category. During sport time, participants may experience happiness when they involved in social interaction with other, playing with others, they increase their positive mood (maximizing pleasant) and forget their sad moment, they are more satisfied towards their current situation, which is no stress and relax (minimizing unpleasant). Therefore, people are more enjoy during in sport moment, because they more involved in activity and presence of positive mood. Last but not least, there have a lot of different theories to talk about happiness, however being in flow and hedonic is easy to access and understand in general. Literature Review Exercise Intensity Different intensity of exercise can also bring different impacts on mood and exercise motivation. People tend not to continue with exercise when it is high-intensity activities as compared to moderate-intensity physical activities (Ekkekakis, Backhouse, Gray and Lind, 2008). Optimal benefits of exercise happen in moderate level, but not low or high intensity exercise (Reed Ones, 2006). This is further supported by Farahani, Saiah, Heidary, Nabilu, and Eskandaripour (2011), saying that regular exercise results in higher life-satisfaction, relaxation, self-esteem, joy than highly intense exercise. It was found that positive effects exist only for exercise duration up to 35 minutes and last for at least 30 minutes after exercise before returning to baseline (Reed Ones, 2006). Walking was being recommended as a prime example of appropriate moderate intensity activity. Many choose walking as their physical activity because it is readily accessible and easily regulated exercise (Anderson and Brice, 2011). It is not good to exercise or involves in sport activities overly. Study showed individuals exercising at high levels exhibit greater eating pathology than individuals who exercise moderate levels (LePage Crowther, 2010). Affective Effects of Physical Exercise Since 1981, a lot of literature reviewed that exercise decreases negative psychological states like self-reported anxiety and depression. It is proven that exercise can reduces tension, anxiety and anger effectively (Yeung, 1996 as cited in Stubbe, Moor, Boomsma Geus, 2007). This is a consistent finding because it is congruent with the finding of Huang and Humphreys (2012) that exercise enhances mental well-being through improved mood and it can be considered as an effective treatment for clinical depression and anxiety. Wininger (2007) as cited in Anderson and Brice (2011) called these reductions in negative mood states as sense of relief effect. This is because sport activities can produce anti-depression effects started from the moment we start exercise and it will stay for some time after finishing the exercise (Kiyani, Mohammadi Sattarzadeh, 2011). This result from the study of Birkeland, Torsheim and Wold (2009) also showed that there are weak but significant negative relatio nships between leisure-time activity and depressed mood. Alfermann and Stoll (2010) as cited in Stanley Cumming (2010) found that exercise was positively correlates with stress-management and control-orientation. Besides from improved well-being, it was also found that exercise can leads to greater ability to cope with stress (Holley et al., 2010 as cited in Knochel et al., 2012). Results from the study of Raedeke, Focht Scales (2009) showed that exercise was associated with positively activated affective states. One of the reason athletes participate in sport is because they can gain fun, enjoyment, challenge and excitement from the activity (Farahani, Saiah, Heidary, Nabilu and Eskandaripour, 2011). Behavioral Effects of Physical Exercise Physical exercise and quality of sleep. The American Sleep Disorders Association had considered physical exercise as a modality of non-pharmacological treatment for sleep disorder (Santos, Tufik, Mello, 2007). Some researches had shown the positive effect about physical exercise and improve the quality of sleep. Physical activity not only associated with better sleep in the general population. Physical activity may also improve the sleep quality among those with sleeping disorders (Loprinzi Cardinal, 2011). And in Brand et al. (2009) research had shown that the adolescent athletes reported better sleep patterns as well as psychological functioning when compared to sedentary control. Any fatiguing activity during daytime that in turn results in a greater metabolic requirement for compensatory night-time sleep also can improve the quality of sleep (Youngstedt, OConnor Dishman as cited in Fairbrother, 2011). Moreover, daytime exercise is a leading factor associated with the best qual ity night-time sleep (Youngstedt Kline, 2006 as cited in Fairbrother, 2011). Happiness and quality of sleep. Insufficient sleep is one of the unhealthy behaviors that can influence the happiness level of individual. The people who was insufficient sleep has shown that easily feeling tired, low energy and unable to concentrate on the task and those behavior has directly linked to lower levels of happiness (Chuah, et al., 2010). Insufficient sleep also can lower the levels of happiness by indirectly way. For example, the people who lack of sleep will decrease the productivity at workplace or school; increase the chance to get injuries (Choi, et al., 2006) negative effect toward interpersonal interactions with others (Totterfell et al, 1994 as cited in Hansen, 2012). In conclusion, time of sleep and quality of sleep has negative correlation with level of happiness. By improve the quality of sleep will improve the level of happiness. Cognitive Effects of Physical Exercise Physical exercise and self esteem. Exercise is a proven way to increase self-esteem (Myers, Sweeney, Witmer, 2000). Research has indentified that physical activity behavior have a strong correlated to self esteem in both children (Strauss, Rodzilsky, Burack, Colin, 2001), adolescents (Erkut Tracy, 2002) and adults (McAuley et al, 2000 as cited in Haugen, Sà ¤fvenbom, Ommundsen, 2011) Experiences in the physical activity context are proposed to influence perceptions of self-efficacy. Change in self-efficacy can lead to higher level change in four sub domain perceptions of the physical self (sports competence, physical condition, body attractiveness and physical strength), which may then generalize to improvement in an overall sense of physical self-worth. Change in physical self-worth may then generalize to global self-esteem. And perception of self also play an important role in overall feeling of self esteem (Sonstroem et al, 1994 as cited in White, Kendrick, Yardley, 2009). M oreover, physical activity can improve self-image, self-confidence; relieve stress tension and premenstrual tension, increased alertness, increased energy, increased ability to cope with stress and moods (Greist Jefferson, 1992 as cited in Greenberg Oglesby, 1996) Biological Effects of Physical Exercise One of the ways to gain happiness is by releasing some neurotransmitter that can make people feel happy. The neurotransmitter that can improve the level of happiness is serotonin, endorphin and dopamine (Breuning, 2011). Numerous biological and chemical hypotheses have been proposed to explain the effects of exercise on positive psychological health. One theory implies that exercise increases serotonin levels and that the release of endogenous opioids from the pituitary gland acts as a mood enhancer and antidepressant. Endorphin is the neurotransmitter that as the bodys natural painkiller and start releasing the individual after begins the exercise. Endorphin improves the level of happiness by four key effects on the body: they can relieve pain, reduce stress and anxiety, enhance the immune system and postpone the aging process. If we continuous exercise for more than 30 minutes then release of these hormones (Rokade, 2011). Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter thought to be involved in mood modulation and inhibition of emotional systems (Panksepp, 1982 as cited in Williams, et al., 2006) Serotonin improves happiness level by change the negative mood. Lower platelet serotonin was associated with lower mood (Peirson Heuchert, 2000 as cited in Young, 2007) whereas better mood was associated with higher blood serotonin levels in human body (William et al , 2006). There are two mechanisms by which physical activity increases brain serotonin. First, motor activity increases the rate and frequency at which serotonin is fired within the brain, resulting in an increase in both the release and synthesis of it. Secondly, regular exercise increases the level of tryptophan in the brain. Tryptophan is an amino acid used to manufacture the serotonin (Turcotte, 2011). Physical Exercise Provide Opportunity for Socialization Literature shows that those who participate in group sports are happier and more sociable (Kiyani, Mohammadi, and Sattarzadeh, 2011). At the same time, to be a social person is one of the ways to increase the level of happiness as human being is a social creature. This is shown in the study of Raedeke, Focht Scales (2009) that people reported higher exercise enjoyment and greater intentions of joining similar exercise activities when they feel more engaged and revitalized. Sport exercises were being recognized as the easiest and powerful way for creation of positive social relationship with others because it is usually in group form (Talebzadeh and Samkan, 2011). Study support the significant relationship between exercise and level of happiness, it is reported that people who involved in sports and group activities will learn to help others, teamwork, gain friendship and thus have a happy life (Gatab and Pirhayti, 2012). There is congruent with the study of Farahani et al., (2011), stated that there are socialization processes when participate in sport activities because they are able to be with others and feel the sense of belonging to a group. Besides, exercise is also able to enhances communication, benchmarking, strength feedbacks, social and communication skills (Newman, 2011). The level of authentic happiness was being analyzed in terms of scores and percentage as shown in Table 1.0. After carrying out several exercises, obviously the level of authentic happiness among our group members had increased. In order to have a more accurate result, we took one test separately before starting any exercise activities and another test after exercising. The scale that Chin ling scored before exercising was 2.92 and after exercising were 3.29. Kok Heng scored 1.80 before exercising and 2.04 after exercising while Pooi Hean obtained 2.67 before exercising and 3.29 after exercising. The scaled that Kai Shen gained before exercising was 3.13 and after exercising were 3.63. For Jie Yings scale before exercising were 3.46 and after exercising were 3.54. Before exercising, Su Inn scored 2.13 and 3.13 after exercising. The results shown that the level of authentic happiness will be increase when exercise. The least increasing of the scale is 0.08 while the most increasing of the scale is 1.0. After exercising, the highest scale of the authentic happiness scale among our group members is 3.63 out of 5.00. Qualitative Analysis of Activity Personal reflection in the form of diary or journal was analyzed according to different themes. In this case, thematic analysis was used to examine how different aspect of exercise (biological, cognition, affection and behavioral) influence level of happiness. Biological Influence on Happiness. Throughout the entire exercise activities, Chin Ling found that she became happier and cheerful. This can be explained that exercise can improve happiness by releasing some neurotransmitter which included serotonin, endorphin and dopamine that can make people feel happy (Breuning, 2011). Moreover, sport activities can produce anti-depression effects started from the moment we start exercise and it will stay for some time after finishing the exercise (Kiyani, Mohammadi Sattarzadeh, 2011). Affective Influence on Happiness. Besides, Chin Lings stress also released through exercise. In the meanwhile, Kok Heng also pointed out that feeling better after exercising as he had time to relax from the assignment and midterm. Moreover, Pooi Hean also found that exercise helped her to keep her mind calm and relax after facing computer for a long period. She also said that exercise is not tiring but helped to minimize her tiredness. Kai Shen declared that that is the moment he can totally free himself from stress and just focus on the conversation when we are jogging or walking together to the same direction. All these statement supported by researchers that exercise can leads to greater ability to cope with stress (Holley et al., 2010 as cited in Knochel et al., 2012). Behavioral Influence on Happiness. Some researchers had shown the positive effect about physical exercise and improve the quality of sleep (Loprinzi Cardinal, 2011). The level of happiness will be improved when the quality of sleep is improved. All these statements are congruent with the reflection of Pooi Hean who mentioned that exercise helped to reduce her insomnia problem and she will be more energetic the next day. Jie Ying also pointed out that she felt energetic as well after exercising and has more motivation to done with her assignment. She also had the experience of sleeping very well after exercising. Cognitive Influence on Happiness. Other than that, Pooi Hean stated that she felt good after exercising because she can lost weight in a very healthy way. She also said that exercise is a great way to keep fit, maintain health and have a better body image. The more she satisfied with the body shape, the more she feels confident and happy. Furthermore, Kai Shen mentioned that he didnt know how much weight he had lost throughout exercise but he just knows that he feel more confident with his body image. Besides, he had more positive thought about his own health as compared to last time which he didnt do much physical activity. All these reflections are congruent with some researches that physical activity can improve self-image, self-confidence; increased alertness, increased energy, increased ability to cope with stress and moods (Greenberg Oglesby, 1996). Opportunity for Socialization. Kok Heng also stated that he felt happy as he really enjoyed the moment with friends. Also, the interaction with friends and get to know more about them let Jie Ying felt very joyful and enjoyed during exercise. Moreover, Kai Shen mentioned that after exercising, the first thing he gains is a better relationship among his friends. He enjoyed not only the satisfaction of the exercise itself, but more of the chit-chating part which allow them to talk about all kind of things. These reflections are congruent with literature shows that those who participate in group sports are happier and more sociable (Kiyani, Mohammadi, and Sattarzadeh, 2011). Sport exercises were being recognized as the easiest and powerful way for creation of positive social relationship with others because it is usually in group form (Talebzadeh and Samkan, 2011). This is true that most of our group member claimed that exercise can improve the relationship among friends. Hedonic theory also stated that certain pleasures require positive social interactions with other people (Compton, 2005). Hedonic can be retrieve easily by asking person current emotional state In Flow during Exercise. Other than that, Su Inn enjoyed the walking session with her friends. Surprisingly she found that the time passed very fast when they were walking to campus. They laughed and talked as well as enjoyed the nice view along the pathway when walking. This phenomenon is congruent with flow theory when being in flow, time is no longer seems to pass in ordinary way, which means time seem to pass more quickly than usual (Compton, 2005). She complete focused in what she is doing at that moment which make her feel like the time seem to pass more quickly than usual.

Euro Disney - Analysis of the External and Internal Environment Essay

Euro Disney’ marketer’s before entering a market as in this case has been the European market should have scanned the environment. By scanning the environment they should analyze the mega-environment as well as the task environment for possible opportunities and threats. Yet, a close attention could have been paid to their strength and weaknesses inside the company. Indeed, the consideration about any trends should have been incorporated in their environment analysis. In this case there has been a recognition of a trend, which is the trend of people going to theme parks during the weekends for entertainment of them as well as their children. Also here is an existing need for entertainment of this kind. Therefore, an opportunity exists in the European market that Euro Disney could have taken advantage of. However, their failure to pick up signals from the macro environment and microenvironment as well as to position their product accordingly, had negative effects on their operations. A further analysis of their macro and micro environment highlights their malfunction. MACRO ENVIRONMENT (P.E.S.T) The components of the macro environment are the political-legal environment, the economic environment, the socio-cultural environment, and the technological environment in which Euro Disney operates. Political-legal environment:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Euro Disney’s decision to open its Theme Park near Paris has caused a negative publicity in the sight of many French politicians. In fact, they have objected the existence of Theme Parks in the center of their French culture since the park has been viewed as a visible symbol of the U.S. culture. Although Euro Disney marketers probably choose this location, in particularly France, due to the fact that is the center of Europe and could most probably be the most convenient place for people to arrive and settle in their hotel to be entertained. For instance, people from all over Europe could travel quickly to Paris due to short distance and travel convenience like people from Germany or Spain could quickly and conveniently arrive in Paris. However, the ignorance of the politicians’ unfriendliness and deterrence caused the dire publicity to be spread all over France and probably wider. Politicians are usually the most publicly articulated figures. Thus, their opposition view would probably be spread to many potential visitor... ...were the major reasons for the lower sales. They overlooked the opportunity to profit on the established costumers need for Theme Park entertainment because they did not realized who in fact were their customers. STRENGHTS AND WEAKNESES Euro Disney’s major strength is its well-known and established tradition and brand name. Further, Euro Disney is a conglomerate company comprised of many businesses. The existence of their own television programme is in fact a strength, thus transformed into opportunity to advertise its products and parks. Indeed, its strengths or distinctive competences may have been turned into opportunities to experience a competitive advantage over its competitors. Obviously, Euro Disney did not used effectively its strength in the European market, thus has overlooked to transform its strengths into opportunities. In addition, one weakness that can be concluded from the case study is Euro Disney’s ineffective marketing team when entering the European market. In fact, it is a failure of its marketing team to quickly react to the threatening environmental signals and especially predicting them before entering and positioning itself in the European market. Euro Disney - Analysis of the External and Internal Environment Essay Euro Disney’ marketer’s before entering a market as in this case has been the European market should have scanned the environment. By scanning the environment they should analyze the mega-environment as well as the task environment for possible opportunities and threats. Yet, a close attention could have been paid to their strength and weaknesses inside the company. Indeed, the consideration about any trends should have been incorporated in their environment analysis. In this case there has been a recognition of a trend, which is the trend of people going to theme parks during the weekends for entertainment of them as well as their children. Also here is an existing need for entertainment of this kind. Therefore, an opportunity exists in the European market that Euro Disney could have taken advantage of. However, their failure to pick up signals from the macro environment and microenvironment as well as to position their product accordingly, had negative effects on their operations. A further analysis of their macro and micro environment highlights their malfunction. MACRO ENVIRONMENT (P.E.S.T) The components of the macro environment are the political-legal environment, the economic environment, the socio-cultural environment, and the technological environment in which Euro Disney operates. Political-legal environment:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Euro Disney’s decision to open its Theme Park near Paris has caused a negative publicity in the sight of many French politicians. In fact, they have objected the existence of Theme Parks in the center of their French culture since the park has been viewed as a visible symbol of the U.S. culture. Although Euro Disney marketers probably choose this location, in particularly France, due to the fact that is the center of Europe and could most probably be the most convenient place for people to arrive and settle in their hotel to be entertained. For instance, people from all over Europe could travel quickly to Paris due to short distance and travel convenience like people from Germany or Spain could quickly and conveniently arrive in Paris. However, the ignorance of the politicians’ unfriendliness and deterrence caused the dire publicity to be spread all over France and probably wider. Politicians are usually the most publicly articulated figures. Thus, their opposition view would probably be spread to many potential visitor... ...were the major reasons for the lower sales. They overlooked the opportunity to profit on the established costumers need for Theme Park entertainment because they did not realized who in fact were their customers. STRENGHTS AND WEAKNESES Euro Disney’s major strength is its well-known and established tradition and brand name. Further, Euro Disney is a conglomerate company comprised of many businesses. The existence of their own television programme is in fact a strength, thus transformed into opportunity to advertise its products and parks. Indeed, its strengths or distinctive competences may have been turned into opportunities to experience a competitive advantage over its competitors. Obviously, Euro Disney did not used effectively its strength in the European market, thus has overlooked to transform its strengths into opportunities. In addition, one weakness that can be concluded from the case study is Euro Disney’s ineffective marketing team when entering the European market. In fact, it is a failure of its marketing team to quickly react to the threatening environmental signals and especially predicting them before entering and positioning itself in the European market.

Supply Management Examination Paper

THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG M. SC. (ENG. ) EXAMINATIONS SUPPLY MANAGEMENT (1ELM6046) December 20, 2011 6:30 p. m. – 8:30 p. m. Answer THREE questions ONLY. Question ONE is Compulsory. Total Marks: 100 Use of Electronic Calculators: â€Å"Only approved calculators as announced by the Examinations Secretary can be used in this examination. It is candidates' responsibility to ensure that their calculator operates satisfactorily, and candidates must record the name and type of the calculator used on the front page of the examination script. Question 1 (Compulsory) (40 marks) Lily Pun, supply manager for King's Way College (KWC), issued an Invitation to Bid covering furnishing and installing metal lockers in the men's gym. Three responsive bids were received from reputable suppliers, ranging from $82,000 to $95,000. There was no public bid opening. Lily was concerned that Lock Manufacturing Company, which had done most of the other locker jobs for KWC, failed to bid. Expecting tha t Lock would have been the low bidder, Lily decided to find out what happened.Upon talking to Lock's sales manager, she learned that the bid request had been assigned to a new employee who had misplaced it and missed the closing date. Since Lily felt that Lock would have provided the winning bid—and certainly, any savings would help KWC's current tight budget situation—she decided to declare all the bid prices unreasonable, cancel all bids, and re-bid the job. On the second round of bidding, a low bid of $77,000 was submitted by Lock. Lily was delighted that she had made the right decision, and proceeded to make the award to Lock. (a)Did Lily do the right thing? Was it ethical? Should she be commended for saving (10 marks) $5,000? (b) Would it have made any difference if the original bid opening had been public? (10 marks) (c) How might this look to the original bidders? Give examples to support your answer. (10 marks) (d) Discuss any similar cases happened that you kn ow and share your opinion. (10 marks) (1ELM6046 – page 1 of 2) Question 2 Burt, Dobler and Starling (2004) in their book â€Å"World Class Supply Management† suggested twelve principles leading to World Class Supply Management.In the role of a professional buyer of an organization, select FIVE principles which you think are most important and (30 marks) suggest how you may turn them into practice. Explain why. Question 3 (a) Discuss: sourcing, in-sourcing, outsourcing and strategic outsourcing. Give examples for each of them to support your answers. (15 marks) (b) What are the differences between local sourcing and global sourcing? What are the issues and challenges associated with China sourcing? (15 marks) Question 4 When should supplier appraisal be necessary? Explain why.And, propose and elaborate a (30 marks) checklist for supplier visit. Question 5 It is frequently said that supply base optimisation seems to be an effective strategy in sourcing. (10 marks) (a) Di scuss the term â€Å"supply base optimisation†. (b) Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of an optimised supply base. How might a (10 marks) purchaser overcome the disadvantages? (c) Comment on the criticality of having a smaller supply base before committing to a (10 marks) supplier management and development program. – End of Paper (1ELM6046 – page 2 of 2)

early marriage Essays

early marriage Essays early marriage Essay early marriage Essay TOPICS THESIS STATEMENT POINTS REFERENCES Baby dumping Title : Many cases about dumping babies. The number of baby dumping cases has become serious issue and it has become one of the main topics to be discussed. This baby dumping issue always related to youth nowadays. we must know this situation happen because people or society lack of education, exposed to social life and uncomfortable situation to their family. 1st point : People or society lack of education. 1st supporting details: For youth, they need to be educating at school. They must get formal education at chool. While, at home they are getting informal education about the negative effect of baby dumping informally from their parents. As a Muslim, they need to aware that baby dumping is forbidden. They need to think it wills worth them nothing. 2nd points : Exposed to social life. 2nd supporting details: Youth nowadays is more social than before. Before this, parents control all their children activities including their children social life but nowadays parents are different, they trust their children can manage their life wisely. Parents should care bout their children activities and friends. Parents must know what their children doing and with whom their children are friend with. 3rd points : Uncomfortable situation to their family. 3rd supporting details : people will always think badly about people that have done wrong doing such as baby dumping. Their family will face all the critics from society. Society will lose respect to the family involved and , they may feel shame having giving birth outside of marriage. It makes their family feel very embarrassed to face the society. Author(s) : missmasgold, Title : BABY DUMPING COME MORE SERIOUS ISSUES NOWADAYS Date of publication : JANUARY 2011 URL : studymode. com/essays/Cause-And-Effect-Of-Baby- Road accident Title : Causes, consequences and prevent. Road accidents also called traffic collision are caused by humans when they overlook laid down rules and regulations governing the use of roads. There are three causes of road accident that are individuals neglect or refuse to follow road signs and regulations, over speeding, and alcohol taken. 1st point : individuals neglect or refuse to follow road signs and regulations. t supporting detail : some drivers to understand or obey road signs. By understanding simple road signs like when the light shows red light means stop green light means it is safe to go. When you reach intersections, bumps or hills, following the appropriate road rules will save lives. One of the fundamental responsibility of a good driver or would be driver is to learn the many road signs that will guide him or her i n the course of driving. studying road signs is a must for any who wish to become not Just an expert but also a responsible driver. oad signs play ignificant roles and must never be neglected. 2nd point : Over speeding. 2nd supporting details : One of the major causes is over speeding which accounts for one of the many causes of road accidents daily. This happen when drivers deliberately drive above the regulated speed limits either to showoff, meet deadlines or Just for fun they thus put [their life and the lives] of many other road users at risk. By exceeding the regulated speed limit, one is risking an accident. 3rd point : Alcohol taken. It is advised that individuals who have taken alcohol or have alcohol in their system hould never take the risk of driving because doing so would result in putting their big influence on your driving ability. It is fatal to drive under the influence of alcohol. A small quantity of alcohol is enough to make one lose control especially when you are behind the wheels. Since they say prevention is better than cure, it is pertinent to adhere to this regulation in order to avert road accidents and the loss of human lives. Author(s) :Toshiba Semiconductors Title : Causes of road accident. Date of publication : 28 March 2013 1st point :